Decision details

The report will outline for endorsement the draft partnership strategy for Substance Use in North Yorkshire, along with proposals and plans for a public consultation on the draft strategy to take place end November 2023 to the end March 2024

Approval has been given for a non-statutory formal public consultation on the proposed Substance Use Strategy

The draft North Yorkshire all-age substance use strategy has been developed by several partner agencies working together to reduce the harms associated with substance use (drugs and alcohol). A non-statutory, formal public consultation will take place from 2nd February 2024 to 30th April 2024 (12 weeks). The proposed consultation will allow members of the public, and those in the targeted groups identified, to find out about the strategy and feedback their thoughts and views.

Substance use impacts individuals, families and communities of all ages and is not substance specific so the North Yorkshire Substance Use strategy is an all-age strategy and covers both alcohol and other drugs collectively.

Whilst there is no legal requirement to complete a statutory consultation with the public, there is a reasonable expectation that this strategy and its content will be of interest to the public and therefore it is recommended that we complete a formal 12-week consultation. The proposal follows best practice in terms of consultation length and approach. The consultation separates its approach used with both adults and young people, recognising different engagement requirements.